Will Phil Brown’s overhaul bring success this season?

SWINDON TOWN announced there eighth signing of the season as Phil Brown recruited Michael Doughty to the club on a two-year deal. But as an influx of players arrives at the County Ground this transfer window, the question being asked is will this squad overhaul bring the much-expected success? TotalSport Swindon’s Ryan Walker gives his analysis.

Over the years the criticism of Chairman Lee Power failing to open his wallet and bring in summer recruits has been well voiced by the Swindon faithful. But after failing to earn promotion back to league one last season, it’s clear that manager Phil Brown has been trusted to bring in the players he believes is needed. 

Jak McCourt, Steven Alzate, Elijah Adebayo, Jermaine McGlashan, Michael Doughty, Martin Smith, Toumani Diagouraga, and Luke McCormich are the eight signings Brown has made over the summer. And with the transfer Window not closing till the August 9^th, plenty of more signings could still be arriving at Swindon. 

However when analysing the signings made by Brown this window, with five of the new recruits at an age of twenty-five or under, it’s clear to see that youthfulness and energy are at the forefront of his recruitment. A young side brings with it energy, creativity, and a lack of fear. But it also brings with it a lack of experience, which can be a worry.

Last season caused a whole host of problems for the Wiltshire club. David Flitcroft looked set to earn Swindon a place in the playoffs, before his unexpected departure to Macclesfield left newcomer Phil Brown with a squad of players not suited to his style of play. Brown likes to play a proactive style always looking for an attacking opportunity with his teams pressing high up the pitch to win the ball quickly. Unfortunately not all players are capable of adapting their game to this.

The signings made so far though are incredibly positive for the club. Michael Doughty, Jak McCourt, and Toumani Diagouraga, look to be some of the best signings Swindon have made in recent times, and the belief is there that these new recruits will earn the side promotion back to League One. 

A squad overhaul doesn’t always guarantee success. You can ask any football manager that. But these signing made by Phil Brown scream positivity and a desire to succeed. Only time will tell as to whether players will perform or whether they will flop, but one thing for sure is that Swindon Town are certainly heading in the right direction.